Supported Accommodation

The Hon. T.A. FRANKS (15:07): Supplementary: have staff who are about to lose their jobs been informed that they must be the ones who inform residents and their families, and has that not happened to this date?

The Hon. J.M.A. LENSINK (Minister for Human Services) (15:07): I don't accept the premise of that question, because staff are not about to lose their jobs. This is going to be a respectful and careful process. We want to retain those skilled workers in the sector, and we will ensure that consultation is conducted in the most respectful manner forward.

It is not an easy process, given the number of people who are involved. It is unfortunate if people are made aware of things not through the proper process and in an alarmist manner, but I am quite confident that the department, as the employer of these employees and the one that has the responsibility for the care and wellbeing of the residents and their families, is conducting this with the utmost sensitivity.